Donegal man Jonny Carlin plays role in Wicklow's Leinster victory over Westmeath

Donegal man Jonny Carlin played for Wicklow at half-forward as the Garden County pulled off a major shock by beating Westmeath in the Leinster Championship yesterday in Portlaoise on a 2-9 to 1-11 scoreline. 

Carlin, who has previously played for Red Hugh’s and Setanta and won a Wicklow IFC medal last October, is in his first year with Oisín McConville’s side and no doubt took great joy from yesterday’s win. 

Despite facing relegation to Division 4 of the National League, Wicklow delivered an unexpected victory with McConville's team displaying resilience to overcome the newly crowned Division 3 champions Westmeath. 

Benefiting from a strong wind in the first half, Wicklow dominated the majority of the period. Kevin Quinn swiftly put them ahead with a free, followed by Christopher O’Brien's impressive score.  

Carlin nearly secured a goal opportunity, but it was saved spectacularly by Jason Daly, leading to a '45’ which John Paul Nolan converted. Westmeath managed to get on the scoreboard through Luke Loughlin, assisted by Ronan Wallace. 

Dean Healy's delivery resulted in a goal for Wicklow, extending their lead. And despite Daly's heroic blocks, Wicklow maintained control, leading 1-05 to 0-01 at halftime. 

In the second half, Westmeath fought back with points from Robbie Forde and Ronan O’Toole, but Wicklow responded, with Nolan securing a crucial second goal.  

Although Jonathan Lynam's goal kept Westmeath in contention, Wicklow maintained their lead. Despite late pressure from Westmeath, Wicklow held on to secure victory, setting up a quarter-final clash with Kildare.